Login

Lost Password

Online Visa Travel News

Thailand Country Guide

In the heart of mainland Southeast Asia, Thailand is equivalent with nightlife, paradise-like beaches, and spicy cuisine. Thailand was officially called Siam up until 1939 and never fell under European colonial power. A monarchy until 1932, the nation is currently a constitutional monarchy in which there’s an elected parliament.

Traveling to Thailand can be a once in a lifetime experience. Thailand can win foodies hearts ten times over with its rich street food. Some of the best tom yum soups can be bought from road vendors. And while some enjoy backpacking and getting to know people at hostels, there are luxury hotels with incredible views. There are options for everyone's taste or budget. But before we dive into Thailand's most worthy attractions, find out some of its history below.

A Brief History of Thailand

Thailand's earliest inhabitants were hunt-gatherers. Around 4000 BC, Thais began farming and grow rice. What is now Thailand was divided into states called Meuang, and modern Thais are believed to come from southern China. Throughout the 9th and 13th centuries, the Khmers ruled the region. By the end of this period, several Thai states in the Mekong River formed a kingdom called Sukhothai. In the 14th century, the kingdom of Ayuthaya arose and took over the Sukhothai.

The Portuguese arrived in 1511, followed by the Dutch, the English, and the French. In 1675 the Greek Constantine PhauPhaulkon became an official at the Thailandese court and he granted French soldiers permission to station soldiers in Thailand. This did not last long and he and the French were expelled in 1688. Thailand avoided any contact or exchange with Europeans until the 19th century. However, the country had many other issues to be concerned with. The Burmese, for instance, invaded Ayuthaya in 1675 capturing the capital and wrecking it. A couple of years after, the general Phraya Taksin was crowned king and established a new capital.

Peace did not last long in Thailand and Taksin was quickly removed in a coup led by Chao Phraya Chakri, who named himself king and became known as Rama I. He made Bangkok the capital and ruled until his death. His son Rama II and his grandson Rama III continued his legacy until 1851. The reign of these three kings set the stage for Thailand's growth and flourishment. The following king Rama IV or Mongkut opened up to the Brits and let them live in the country. Rama IV allowed free trade and participated in treaties with other European nations.

As Thailand continued to evolve the fifth king abolished slavery and the custom that people should prostrate themselves in the presence of a monarch. Rama V is responsible for reforming Thailand's government. Though Thailand had successfully avoided being colonized by Europeans, Rama V was forced to cede Laos and Cambodia to France in the early 1900s.

Twentieth-century Thailand

Thailand supported the allied side in the first world war. A revolution sparked in 1932 forcing Thailand to become a constitutional monarchy. There were efforts to restore the previous king, Prajadhipok, but it was not successful and in March 1935 he abdicated in support of his 10-year-old nephew Ananda Mahidol. It is December 8th, 1941 and Thailand let Japanese troops pass to invade British Malaya. The next year, Thailand declares war on Britain and the USA.

After the war, Thailand signs a peace treaty with France and Britain in 1946. Following this action, the country joins the UN. The same year a new constitution is signed and the king is mysteriously killed. Bhumibol took over the throne but he was not there for long as Field-Marshal Phibul staged a coup in 1947 establishing a period of military ruling.

Thai students protested the regime in 1973, and it was the king that prevented a slaughter allowing Thailand to return to a civilian government with a coalition of 17 parties. However, students protested again three years later and on this occasion, the police didn't withhold, killing and injuring thousands. The army intervened and changed the government once more. THe following years were unstable. Another coup took place in 1991.

The lack of a stable government was still an issue by 2006 when Thailand underwent another military coup. Though there’s a painful history of military ruling and a power struggle, the Thai are open and generous people.The country has become a much sought-after destination for travelers from all over the world. It inspires honeymooners who seek calm beaches with romantic sunsets while youngsters head to the busy Bangkok for dining and partying.

Ultimately, the country offers a wide range of experiences. Travelers visiting Thailand can hop on a boat and visit any of its islands. For the adventurous souls, swimming with sharks is just one of the many options you can find in this proud nation. Many visitors going to Thailand also consider making a stop in Cambodia, another fascinating destination in the Asian continent.

Thailand Basic Information

Country:
Thailand

Capital:
Bangkok

Population:
60

Currency:
Bath

Language:
Thai

Time Zone:
GMT+7

When to Go

If you are interested in visiting Thailand you may want to know when the heat won’t melt you. Though an alluring country, Thailand is at its best at the very end of the calendar year or at the very beginning. Read on for further details on its weather.

High Season takes place between November and March. During this period the temperatures are comfortable and allow visitors to enjoy the lush nature. Due to the Christian calendar, this period attracts many westerners that run away from winter.

Shoulder Season, April to June is usually a dry period and very warm. Bangkok temperature rises up to 30 degrees celcius. In the coast however, there’s a gentle cool sea breeze. September and October are two good months to head to the north and the gulf coast.

Low Season begins in July and ends in October. It’s monsoon season and weather can range from soft rain to major flooding. In truth, not an ideal time to travel as some islands shut down.

Thailand is a good destination for:

summer

spring

Thailand Entry Requirements

Whether traveling by air, land or boat, all visitors must present a valid passport and a boarding pass when arriving in Thailand. Visitors should also present a completed arrival and departure card.

A visitor visa or nonimmigrant visa grants travelers 90 days for those entering Thailand for business, study, retirement or family visits. It is not necessary to apply for a tourist visa if the trip is shorter than 30 days. For stays longer than this period travelers should apply for a visa at a consulate or embassy.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs oversees visa and immigration matters. Visa regulations in Thailand are ever changing and it is best to monitor their requisites before traveling. Thaivisa has useful information.

Thailand’s customs department has certain regulations worth keeping in mind. It is illegal to travel with firearms, illegal drugs and pornographic media. The country has rules about taking a Buddha replica. It is required to complete an export licence before departure, the inspection process takes four days.

No visa needed

eVisa needed

Visa on arrival

Visa

Thailand Country Atractions

Choosing Thailand’s top attractions is a challenge for any traveler. We know this and have chosen a few elemental landmarks in the country.

Chiang Mai: the country’s northern capital, was the seat of the Lanna kingdom. Calm and relaxed is a perfect departure from Bangkok’s bustle lifestyle. The city offers a wide range of activities for all tastes.

Chatuchak Weekend Market: set in Bangkok this one of the biggest markets in the world, this market brings together anything that can be sold. From local products to used sneakers, there’s something for everyone.

Grand Palace: this former royal residence encompases palace buildings in the center of Bangkok. The city’s most important landmark will certainly impact visitors with its unique architecture.

Railay or Rai Leh: set on the Andaman Coast in the Krabi Province, is a beautiful island only reachable by boat. Featuring irresistible sandy beaches, it’s an ideal location for rock climbing.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: This buddhist temple in Chiang Mai is located in the northern part of Thailand. Set atop of a mountain, the temple overlooks the city. There’s a 306-step staircase that will take you to this ancient monastery.

Phang Nga Bay: north east of Phuket, has unique limestone cliffs that bulge out of the water. There’s an island called James bond, one of the most famous sports here. This area can be explored by boat.

Travel Tips

Traveling to a foreign country is exciting, but we should all consider that each country has certain regulations. We share with you some basic survival tips for your trip.

Take your time, Thailand offers much variety to its visitors, but don’t try to do everything and rush it. Most travelers start in Bangkok and the capital is worth getting to know.

Be respectful and mindful of the country’s traditions and infrastructure. There are many temples and these are important for Thai people.

Mosquito alert! Take repellent with you and spray your clothes too. This is true all year and you might regret not using it.

Try Thailand’s famous beer, Sigha, which you can find almost anywhere. People have to be over 20 to buy alcohol. Nightclubs will request your ID.

The sex industry is well known in Thailand but prostitution is illegal. There are severe ethical consequences involved. Best to be smart and safe.

Though Thai people are kind, beware of scams and people offering you things on your journey. Don’t accept offers on the street and book with your hostel or hotel and agree on a price before you buy a tour or a product.

Latests News by Region

Latest update: Safety and security section (Political situation and Air travel) and summary - addition of information and advice following the closure of the borders with Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao by Venezuelan authorities; updated information and advice about potential travel disruption during and ahead of demonstrations in Venezuela